DRC Railway Project: 6,500 Face Displacement Over Critical Minerals

A significant infrastructure initiative, the Lobito Corridor project, funded by the European Union and the United States, is poised to displace as many as 6,500 residents in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The project involves upgrading the Benguela railway to facilitate the export of critical minerals vital for green energy technologies, such as those used in electric car batteries, amidst a global competition for these resources.

Global Witness reports that up to 1,200 buildings, predominantly in the city of Kolwezi, face demolition as part of the railway rehabilitation. Many residents, including those in the Bel Air neighborhood, have established homes and businesses near the tracks, some having lived there for decades. Concerns are mounting over potential forced evictions without adequate compensation, with past demolitions for other projects reportedly lacking payment.

While the Lobito Atlantic Railway consortium operates the line, they state responsibility for its maintenance within the DRC lies with the state railway company. The EU has committed to assessing potential impacts through comprehensive feasibility and environmental studies, ensuring adherence to high social and environmental standards, including community consultations and resettlement plans where necessary.